It is no secret that MacBook owners are happy with their computers because of how reliable the devices are.Besides, it is not just high-end Macs that offer years of service.Buying a cheaper model with weaker hardware should not pose a problem either. However, MacBooks are just like other computers in the sense that they also do not last forever.

Sooner or later, you will notice that it takes longer for the MacBook to load after a reboot or that the battery does not last as long as it should. Not having a proper maintenance routine shortens the laptop’s lifespan, at least from its performance point of view.But even if you neglected to take care of the MacBook, it does not mean that you should give up on it.No, there are ways to counter poor performance problems.

Scan the Computer and Check for Malware

The first thing you want to do is to scan the system and check for potential malware that might have infected the system.

Keep in mind that while Macs are not as prone to cybersecurity threats, the odds of attracting unwanted viruses and malware are still there. Use your antivirus software or get one if there is none on your computer and run it to check for potentially corrupted files.If the antivirus detects threats that infected the MacBook, do not hesitate and remove them from the system. In some cases, the damages might be too much for the antivirus to handle, and you might need to reinstall the operating system to get rid of the corrupted data.

Pay Attention to Activity Monitor

Keep close tabs on Activity Monitor as it shows which processes are consuming the most resources.Since your Mac has a finite amount of memory, you need to manage it optimally.

Otherwise, the computer will struggle to perform. There might be some redundant processes, such as background applications you forgot to close because they are part of the startup item list.Activity Monitor lets you detect and help deal with these redundant processes.

Remove Desktop Clutter

Given how convenient it is to keep documents, shortcuts, and other files on the computer’s desktop, it is no surprise to see quite a few people cluttering their desktops.However, this convenience comes at a price. Each desktop shortcut adds to the clutter pile and puts a toll on the system’s performance.

Whenever you switch between the desktop and another tab, the MacBook has to render icons, which takes time. It might be difficult to readjust your computer habits if you cannot keep shortcuts on the desktop, but it is still worth it for the overall Mac performance improvements.

Create More Free Space on the Drive

Lack of storage is one of the most common issues among MacBook owners, particularly after the recent rise of solid-state drives that replaced hard drives due to the former’s better performance. SSDs offer less storage, so running out of space is easier than one might think.It also does not help when you keep large media files, old email attachments, and unnecessary applications. Other than removing redundant junk, if you want to free up your space, it is recommended to transfer some data to external storage.You can either get an external HDD or use iCloud.

The latter offers five gigabytes of space for free with an option to increase it up to 2TB for 10 dollars a month.

Stop Memory Leaks

When the computer has been running for a long time, it starts to distribute memory incorrectly.In other words, the system resources travel to applications and processes that should not receive the memory. The longer the computer has been active, the bigger the memory leak problem.And since restarting the laptop is all it takes to solve the issue, you should do it.

In fact, as a rule of thumb, you should restart the MacBook every couple of hours.If you do, you should notice how much better it runs after a restart.And as soon as you see that the performance slows down, restart it again.

Clean Dust Inside the MacBook

Even if you do not hear loud noises and notice overheating, you should still remember to clean the MacBook’s dust regularly.

The filth that accumulates inside is a hindrance to the internal hardware. Clogged internal fans cannot do their work.Add the fact that you might be using the MacBook in a poorly ventilated room, and it does not take too long for the hardware to overheat. The problem will not solve itself.In case you are reluctant to clean the dust yourself because you are afraid of damaging the hardware, give the work to someone else.

A professional who knows how to deal with Apple device problems should help you.You will need to pay money, but it will be in exchange for a valuable service. Image by Norbert Levajsics Image by Christopher Gower Image by Brennan Burling